The Negative Effects of a Damp Basement on Your Health
Independent Statements from Health and Safety Organizations
“CDPH has concluded that the presence of water damage, dampness, visible mold, or mold odor in schools, workplaces, residences, and other indoor environments is unhealthy. We recommend against measuring indoor microorganisms or using the presence of specific microorganisms to determine the level of health hazard or the need for urgent remediation. Rather, we strongly recommend addressing water damage, dampness, visible mold, and mold odor by (a) identification and correction of the source of water that may allow microbial growth or contribute to other problems, (b) the rapid drying or removal of damp materials, and (c) the cleaning or removal of mold and moldy materials, as rapidly and safely as possible, to protect the health and well-being of building occupants, especially children.”
– California Department of Public Health
Statement on Building Dampness, Mold, and Health, 2011
See full statement from the California Department of Public Health here
“Microbial pollution is a key element of indoor air pollution. It is caused by hundreds of species of bacteria and fungi, in particular filamentous fungi (mould), growing indoors when sufficient moisture is available. This document provides a comprehensive review of the scientific evidence on health problems associated with building moisture and biological agents. The review concludes that the most important effects are increased prevalences of respiratory symptoms, allergies and asthma as well as perturbation of the immunological system. The document also summarizes the available information on the conditions that determine the presence of mould and measures to control their growth indoors. WHO guidelines for protecting public health are formulated on the basis of the review. The most important means for avoiding adverse health effects is the prevention (or minimization) of persistent dampness and microbial growth on interior surfaces and in building structures.”
– World Health Organization
WHO Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality : Dampness and Mould, 2009
See full statement from the World Health Organization here
“Credible research and cognizant health authorities have established an association between health problems and indoor dampness. A building’s mechanical systems, its exterior enclosure, and its occupant activities all affect the amount of wetting and drying indoors. Therefore, ASHRAE takes the position that all policymakers, regulatory authorities, building professionals, and building occupants should be aware that indoor dampness, mold, and microbial growth are warnings of potential problems. All concerned should make decisions and take actions that help buildings, their contents, and their systems stay as dry as possible, given their functions. This position document provides help in understanding some of the complex interactions and decisions that lead to indoor dampness. However, professionals and the public need to know, with greater certainty than at present, when a building is “dry enough” to avoid dampness-related health risks. ASHRAE recommends further health-related building research to develop and publish a practical, quantitative, and effective definition and measurement technique for whole-building dampness.”
– ASHRAE
ASHRAE Position Document on Limiting Indoor Mold and Dampness in Buildings, 2012
See full statement from ASHRAE here
